Skiing with LESA

Travelers looking to hit the slopes in the Middle East often overlook Lebanon’s Mzaar Kfardebian, despite it being the region’s largest ski resort. The Skiing with LESA tour offers a well-rounded way to learn or improve your skiing skills, set against some of Lebanon’s most breathtaking mountain scenery. Based on extensive reviews and detailed tour info, we’re here to give you a clear picture of what makes this experience stand out — and what to consider before booking.

What we love about this experience is the personalized attention with private lessons, the spectacular mountain backdrop for photos, and the flexibility of transfer options. On the flip side, the costs for lift passes and gear aren’t included, so budget accordingly. This tour is ideal for beginners eager to learn, intermediate skiers wanting to sharpen skills, or anyone seeking a day of mountain adventure with expert guidance.

Key Points

• Private lessons help you progress faster and focus on your personal goals.
• Flexible transfer options make it easy to start your day from Beirut or nearby areas.
• Spectacular mountain scenery provides stunning backdrops for photos and memories.
• Cost considerations: lift passes, equipment, and snacks are extra, so plan your budget.
• Expert guides ensure safety and personalized instruction.
• Duration options: Half or full-day sessions let you customize your experience.

An Overview of Skiing with LESA

This tour is centered around the Mzaar Kfardebian ski resort, Lebanon’s biggest ski destination, offering a combination of beginner slopes and more challenging runs. The package is priced at $153.85 per person, with options for half or full-day lessons, making it a practical choice for those wanting a guided, hassle-free experience on the snow.

The experience includes guidance from professional instructors who assess your skill level—whether you’re a total novice or have some skiing background—and tailor the lesson accordingly. It’s a private activity, so your small group benefits from individual attention, which is a huge plus for learning or gaining confidence.

For those concerned about transportation logistics, private transfers from Beirut or Byblos can be arranged at an additional cost, saving time and effort on logistics. The tour operates from early morning, with sessions running from 8:30 AM until mid-afternoon, aligning well with a full day of mountain fun.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The core of the experience is the guidance/instructor, who will guide you through theory, warm-up exercises, and on-slope practice. However, lift passes, ski hire, and gear rental are at your expense, which adds to the overall cost. This means you need to budget for these if you don’t bring your own equipment.

Snacks aren’t included, so bringing some energy bars or a small picnic might be wise, especially for full-day lessons. The tour’s flexibility allows you to book half-day or full-day sessions, which can be tailored to your stamina and enthusiasm.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Mzaar Ski Resort:
Your instructor will pick you up from your designated meeting point—either in Beirut, Byblos, or a location in between. The transfer can be arranged in advance, and you might find the convenience well worth the extra fee. Once at the resort, you’ll get your lift tickets while preparing your skis and gear.

The lesson begins:
For beginners, the instructor—who is described as professional and friendly—starts with theory and basic exercises. If you already have some skills, they will assess your level on the nursery slopes, then progress to more advanced terrain if appropriate. The focus is always on safety, confidence, and skill-building.

Practice and progress:
Expect warm-up descents on beginner slopes, followed by tailored instruction on more challenging areas if you’re ready. The half-day session lasts around 4 hours, with a few short breaks, while the full day extends to 6-7 hours with a couple of longer rests. This structure allows you to pace yourself comfortably.

End of the day:
The tour wraps up back at the meeting point, with the possibility of additional transfers arranged for your return journey. Many reviews highlight the professionalism and care of the guides, making the experience both enjoyable and safe.

The Mountain Experience: Why It’s Special

Spectacular views are a recurring highlight in reviews, and rightly so. The mountain scenery around Mzaar Kfardebian offers postcard-worthy landscapes, perfect for photos in full ski gear. The snow is generally well-maintained, and the slopes are suitable for various skill levels, which is ideal for those who want to learn or practice.

The guides’ expertise clearly makes a difference. Reviewers mention instructors as both professional and friendly, creating a confident atmosphere whether you’re just starting out or refining your technique. One reviewer said, “They made us feel very safe and comfortable,” emphasizing the importance of trust and professionalism on the mountain.

Valuable personalization is another key aspect. The private lesson format ensures that your instructor can adapt to your pace and focus on your specific goals, unlike group lessons that might feel rushed or fragmented.

Practical Details and Tips

Pricing and value:
While the tour costs about $154, you should account for lift tickets and rentals, which are not included. When you add these, the overall expense depends on your gear needs and the day’s activities, but the guided instruction is a significant perk that enhances value.

Duration options:
Choosing between half-day and full-day lessons allows flexibility. If you’re new to skiing or just want a gentle introduction, a half-day might suffice. But for those eager to make real progress or enjoy a full mountain experience, the full day offers more time on the slopes.

Transfers:
Private transportation can be arranged from Beirut or Byblos, which is a big plus, especially if you want to avoid public transport or car rentals. The convenience of door-to-door service means you can focus on enjoying your day rather than logistics.

What to bring:
Bring your own snacks or energy bars to keep your stamina up. Wear comfortable, warm clothing, and don’t forget your ski accessories if you’re renting gear elsewhere. Arrive early to maximize your time on the snow.

Authentic Experience and Insights from Reviewers

Reviewers consistently mention the guides’ professionalism, highlighting instructor Bassem El Hage as particularly notable. One reviewer gushed, “He is the best,” and many appreciated the safety measures taken during lessons, making even nervous first-timers feel secure.

The scenic backdrop is often described as “amazing”, with visitors saying it’s a perfect way to see Lebanon’s true beauty. Many also remarked on how the personalized attention helped them improve quickly, sometimes after just a few hours.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is especially well-suited for beginners or intermediate skiers who want to refine their skills with expert guidance. The private instruction ensures you’ll get tailored feedback, which accelerates learning and builds confidence.

If you’re traveling with someone who wants to learn or just enjoy the mountain scenery without the hassle of managing equipment and transport, this package makes it straightforward. It’s a good choice for those seeking value for money, given the personalized service and stunning environment.

However, if you prefer to skip the hassle of gear and lifts, or are on a tight budget, you might find the additional costs for passes and rentals add up. Also, keep in mind this is a winter activity, so weather conditions can affect availability and experience.

Final Thoughts

Skiing with LESA offers a memorable way to experience Lebanon’s mountain scenery, especially for those new to the slopes or looking to improve their skills in a safe, guided setting. The private lessons ensure personalized attention, making progress faster than in large group settings, and the professional, friendly guides leave you feeling confident and well cared for.

The flexibility of transfer options and the breathtaking backdrop of Mzaar Kfardebian make this tour a practical and enjoyable day out. While costs for lift passes and gear are additional, many reviewers find the overall value justified by the quality of instruction and scenery.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a guided, hassle-free ski day with a focus on learning or simply enjoying Lebanon’s snowy peaks in comfort and style. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned skier, LESA’s private approach helps you get the most out of your mountain adventure.

FAQ

Are transportation options included?
No, private transfers can be arranged for an additional fee from Beirut, Byblos, or in between.

What is the duration of the tour?
You can choose a half-day (about 4 hours) or full-day (6-7 hours) session, depending on your preference.

Are lift passes included?
No, lift passes are not included in the price. You’ll need to purchase them separately at the resort.

Do I need my own equipment?
No, gear rental is available, but it’s at your expense. You can also bring your own equipment if you prefer.

Is this experience suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the instructor starts with foundational theory and exercises, making it perfect for beginners.

Can I upgrade or customize my lesson?
The tour offers private lessons tailored to your skill level, so you can focus on what you want to improve.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, with waterproof outerwear, gloves, and goggles. Bring snacks for longer sessions.

Is this a group activity?
No, this is a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

To sum it up, this skiing experience with LESA offers a fantastic blend of professional guidance, stunning scenery, and flexibility that suits many travelers. Whether you’re just starting out or want to take your skills to the next level, it’s a practical way to enjoy Lebanon’s winter wonderland.